According to The Sun, Newcastle are in talks to sign Watford maestro Will Hughes, who is also wanted by Aston Villa.
What’s the story?
Well, the Magpies are in negotiations with the Hornets over a deal for the 26-year-old.
Hughes made 30 Championship appearances last season as Watford earned an immediate return to the Premier League.
Now, Steve Bruce is keen to add more options to Newcastle’s midfield, and is hoping to complete a £12m deal for the Englishman.
Watford are happy to sell as they target new signings as well.
However, with Newcastle working on a tight budget, The Sun believe Bruce could use players as makeweights in a deal for Hughes.
One of those could be Isaac Hayden, who Watford are interested in.
Gareth Southgate thinks he’s fantastic
The man who lead England to their first final since 1966 last night is a big fan of Hughes.
Gareth Southgate spent plenty of time with the Newcastle target while managing England’s Under-21 side, and only had good things to say.
As quoted by the Football Association, Southgate said: “He was fantastic. I think he was the youngest player in our team and has played with great maturity in both matches, under scrutiny and the spotlight.
“His touch and his awareness was first-class. It’s difficult to single people out because there were so many good performances, but I thought he was outstanding.”
Newcastle aren’t the only ones interested in the £30,000-a-week man.
As aforesaid, Aston Villa also want the Watford playmaker.
In our view, the Villans are in the stronger position.
Dean Smith’s side seem to have greater financial power than Newcastle, while they can offer him the chance to play with better players like Jack Grealish.
However, anything could happen – keep an eye on this transfer saga.
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